The Ahwahnee, a full-service, AAA Four-Diamond property that opened in 1927, will reopen today after completion of a multi-million upgrade to the fire, life and safety systems and a remodel of its guest rooms, public spaces and exterior areas.  The Ahwahnee, a member of Historic Hotels of America, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977 and in 1987 it was listed as a National Historic Landmark. Designers Richard Kollath and Edward McCann of Kollath-McCann Creative Services have worked with The Ahwahnee since 1998, researched Yosemite’s archives to select textiles, colors and accessory items that are complementary to those used in the hotel between 1925 and 1942, which was established by National Park Service Historians as the “period of historic significance” for the hotel based on a comprehensive evaluation of the hotel’s history.

The results of the grand hotel's renovation are evident immediately upon arrival with the replacement of the boardwalk leading to the main lobby. Once inside, visitors will be greeted with a wide variety of upgrades and refurbishments, which incorporated historically relevant materials. Refurbishment was conducted in the guest rooms, hallways, Great Lounge, lobby, Dining Room, kitchen, public restrooms and exterior. The majority of the work is completed and remaining finishing touches will be in place by June.

An emphasis on simplicity, understated elegance and colors found in nature was paramount in the redesign of the guest rooms. Additions will include new bed linens, hand-loomed, custom-made throw blankets, bed frames, window treatments, woven-wood window shades, carpeting in the rooms and hallways, high-definition TV programming, newly-wired telephones and original artwork. Welcoming, earthy hues of chocolate brown, sage green, warm gold and terra cotta set the palette for the guest rooms' new soft goods.

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